At the beginning of every year, people across the United States need to get prepared for the tax season as it is budget time. The key to getting a refund within the stipulated time is filing your taxes on time.

This guide will help you figure out when can you start filing taxes for 2025 and will provide all the important details about the IRS tax filing season, deadlines, as well as tips to make your workings smoother.

Additionally, we will look at how EasyFiling can assist with your tax filing processes.

IRS Tax Filing Start Date for 2025

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) usually communicates the starting date for tax season around early January.

The IRS is expected to start accepting tax returns for the 2025 tax season in mid to late January for the 2024 tax year. Looking at trends from previous years, 2025 tax filing can be expected to commence from January 20 to January 27, 2025.

Do remember that tax returns can only be filed once the IRS commences e-filing which means if you try to file before the IRS commences official processing for tax returns, you may experience delays in your return being processed.

Key Tax Deadlines for 2025

Make sure to keep these dates in mind:

Mid to Late January 2025: IRS begins accepting e-filed returns and starts processing paper filings.

April 15, 2025: Last day to submit individual income tax returns (may move to holiday or disaster extension).

June 15, 2025: Last day to file taxes for U.S. citizens or residents living outside of the country.

October 15, 2025: Last day to file for those who applied for tax extensions.

There could be penalties or interest charges if these deadlines are missed, so make sure taxes are filed promptly. Taxes should always be filed on time to avoid issues. If you know you will have trouble meeting the deadline, filing for an extension is a good option.

Ways to File Your Taxes

For convenience and the correct filing of taxes, individuals may choose from numerous options available.

E-Filing with IRS Free File or Tax Software: This method is the most convenient of all. Maximization of deductions and accuracy are ensured by various tax software applications.

Tax Filing Using Mail: This option is best for low-priority filers or those who strictly need documentation. Although people can still file their returns this way, it is more time-consuming.

Employing a Tax Specialist: The self-employed, businessmen, and investors often have to deal with difficult tax matters, in which case an expert’s knowledge is mandatory.

Visiting a VITA Center: Certain individuals, specifically people below the poverty line, senior citizens, or those with disabilities can get free assistance on tax return preparation through the VITA scheme offered by the IRS.

To make the article effective, I have included an additional section about tax documents. If there is anything in particular you want me to change, please inform me.

Documents Required for IRS Tax Filing

Here is a list of personal information documents I.D. needed to file taxes. Please read carefully to ensure there is no delay with IRS processing.

1. Personal Information

• Your, your spouse’s, and all dependents’ Social Security Numbers or ITIN.
• State-issued I.D. or driver’s license. For identity verification.

2. Income Documents

W-2 Form: You get this form from your employer outlining your income and tax deductions if you are on a payroll.

1099 Forms: These include:

• Freelancers/independent contractors receive 1099-NEC.
• Other forms of self-employed income receive 1099-MISC.
• 1099-DIV and 1099-INT are for interest and dividend income.
• Unemployment gain receives a 1099-G.
• Third-party payment services such as PayPal, Venmo, and Stripe issue 1099-K.

K-1 Forms: Partners in a business or shareholders in an S-Corp receive Schedule K-1.

3. Deduction and Credit Documentation

• For the student loan interest deduction/tuition payment deduction, 1098-E and 1098-T are issued.
• Mortgage interest 1098 Form for self-employed individuals.
• Receipts and medical insurance premiums.
• Receipt for charitable donations.
• Caring for Dependent Children credit entails childcare costs, receipts, and details of the service provider.
• IRA and retirement plan contributions.

4. Business and Self-Employment Records (If Applicable)

• Profit loss for self-employment.
• Vehicle and mileage logs if the vehicle is used for business purposes.
• Business expenses such as office, equipment and supplies, and home office receipts.

5. Banking and Payment Information

• Details for direct deposit for tax returns, bank account, and routing numbers will suffice.
• Estimate payment made throughout the year if any must be kept for record.

Having these documents ready will help you file your taxes accurately and simplify your filing process.

Early Filing Benefits

There are many benefits to filing your tax return the moment the IRS allows it such as:

Faster Refunds: Filing your taxes earlier allows you to receive your refund faster, especially with the use of direct deposit.

Preventing Tax Fraud: Filing your taxes earlier will help alleviate the chance of someone using your Social Security for tax fraud.

Ample Time for Corrections: Having more than enough time to resolve issues before deadlines is a major plus.

Less Stress: Avert the chaos of electric traffic jams and system overheating that comes during the tax season by filing your taxes earlier.

Early Relieving Tax Benefits: Deductions and certain credits become available as your filing becomes processed sooner.

What to Prepare Before Filing

It is important to have the following information readily available:

• W-2 or 1099 Employment or Client Forms.
• Social Security Number (SSN) or Tax ID Number (TIN).
• Federal Tax Return from the previous year for comparison.
• Account Information for direct deposits.
• Receipts for and Deduction and Credit like expenses for business or education, medical expenses, donation receipts, and many others.
• Investment and Retirement Account Statements: If you receive retirement income, dividends, or do have capital gains, make sure to have your 1099s ready.
• Any Other Income Documentation: Ensure that if real estate, contract work, or other types of investments earned you income, you will account for all of it properly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing Taxes

A lot of taxpayers tend to make these easily fixable mistakes that make their return submission delayed, or even worse, subject to an audit. Here are a few of the major oversights to avoid.

Incorrect or Missing Social Security Numbers: Always check your social security numbers to ensure it is correct before returning your form.

Mathematical Errors: Calculation mistakes can be avoided by using tax software to do your calculations for you.

Incorrect Bank Account Information: Providing the wrong account number when expecting a refund will only hinder the entire process.

Forget to Report All Income: Skipping to notify the IRS about income made from part-time work, investments, or other engagements can have dire consequences.

Missing Deductions or Credits: Explore information regarding available tax credits such as EITC, or Child Tax Credit that can increase your return.

Not Filling At All: Do not be afraid to file late. Take your tax bill with you, as paying late means fewer fines in your pocket.

Failing To Sign And Date Your Return: Signing and dating your return may slip your mind, but do not make this mistake. When handing it in, make sure it is filled correctly.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Tax Refund?

The time it takes to get your refund depends on your methods of filing as well as if you selected direct deposit:

• E-Filed with Direct Deposit: Usually 10 to 21 Days.
• Paper Return with Direct Deposit: Usually 4 to 6 weeks.
• Paper Return with a Mailed Check: This can take 6 to 8 weeks or more.

Make sure to check the IRS site for the “Where’s My Refund” tool for more info on your status.

How EasyFiling Can Help in Tax Filing 2025

EasyFiling offers tax filing as well as accounting services so that you adhere to all IRS provisions without breaking a sweat. Here are some of the ways that EasyFiling can assist you during the 2025 tax season:

Timely And Accurate Tax Filling: EasyFiling guarantees that your return has been filed on time without any mistakes and that your refund is processed accurately.

Maximizing Deductions and Credits: Our teams work to ensure that all possible deductions and tax credits that can save you money in taxes are utilized.

Effortless E-Filing: We make filing taxes electronically fast, easy, and secure with EasyFiling.

IRS Regulation Adherence: Our tax services help you with compliance and avoid IRS audits and penalties.

Personalized Tax Assistance: Get tailored tax advice from experts according to your unique tax situation arising from your activities as an individual or business owner.

No matter where you fall in the US tax jurisdiction, one thing is for sure, with EasyFiling, you will professionally reduce your stress knowing your tax return was filed accurately and maximize your refund.

Final Thoughts

Usually, the IRS starts accepting tax returns anywhere between mid-January to late January.

Although we expect officials to announce a date for the 2025 tax season start, there is no fixed date available right now. Getting everything ready ensures that you can file without rushing towards the deadline.

Make sure you have collected all supporting documents and reviewed all your details before filing your taxes.

To persuasively achieve full compliance with IRS regulations and enable maximum deductions, it will be best to reach out to a tax expert who can assist you with all your professional tax needs.

Looking For Tax Assistance?

EasyBooks by Easyfiling specializes in bookkeeping and tax preparation, so if you need help with your finances, get in touch for professional help today!

Frequently Answered Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the official IRS tax filing start date for the year 2025?

January is when we expect the IRS to announce the official start date for tax filing for the rest of the year. E-filing is expected to begin from the 20th to the 27th day of January 2025. However, this date has not been confirmed on the IRS website, so make sure to check back frequently.

2. Am I liable to pay a fine if I do not meet my tax deadline on April the 15th, 2025?

If you have not submitted a claim for an extension and you miss the deadline, there are chances that you will be subject to interest on top of the remaining balance you owe in taxes. However, if you filed for an extension, your return needs to be submitted by the 15th of October but the owed taxes still have to be paid by April’s deadline.

3. Can I e-file my taxes early before the IRS opens?

You will not be able to submit your taxes for e-filing until the IRS begins to accept returns in January 2025. However, you can prepare your tax return ahead of time with a tax professional or software.

4. What is the best way to check the status of the tax return?

The IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool will allow you to check on your refund status online. If you e-file using direct deposit, expect your refund within 10 to 21 days. This process may take longer for paper returns.

5. What help can EasyFiling offer for tax preparation?

EasyFiling assists with tax filing, bookkeeping, and compliance, providing expert tax preparation services. With EasyFiling’s EasyBooks, we provide additional bookkeeping services to help you organize your finances throughout the year.